Delta pushes Riyadh route launch to March 2027

Delta Air Lines has postponed its planned Atlanta-to-Riyadh nonstop service until at least March 2027. The route had been scheduled to start Oct. 23 with daily flights before moving to three times weekly. The delay follows deadly attacks on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport, and affected passengers can seek rebooking or refund options through Delta.

Delta had intended to begin Atlanta–Riyadh flights on Oct. 23, operating daily for one week before shifting to three weekly frequencies. The postponement follows attacks on King Khalid International Airport that killed at least 16 people, wounded more than 300, and damaged terminal buildings and at least one Saudia aircraft. The airport was set to stay closed through at least 9 p.m. GMT on Oct. 17, and other airlines also paused service.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian had said safety would determine the decision. The airline says Saudi Arabia remains a key long-term market. Travelers booked before March can use Delta’s app or website for rebooking, rerouting, or refunds. The route also involves a Riyadh Air partnership and Saudi subsidies through its Air Connectivity Program.

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